With their season kicking off over weekend, netballers in Kiama, Shellharbour and the Illawarra had an extra pep in their step with funding from Greater Bank set to subsidise registration fees to help more youngsters play the sport they love.
This year’s support will see Kiama Netball Association (KNA) establish an all-abilities program for young children with additional needs, the funds set to assist with registration costs, uniforms and the general operations of the program.
Meanwhile, Illawarra District Netball Association (IDNA) will be upgrading equipment, hosting fitness and agility sessions, subsidising travel and accommodation for players and ensuring teams are sun and weather smart with new gazebos.
KNA President Michelle Gregory said grassroots netball associations play an important part in helping young netballers achieve their big dreams.
"All young netballers have dreams to be an Australian Diamond, but without grassroots netball and the trust and support of organisations such as Greater Bank, opportunities are limited and the pathway to success becomes much harder to navigate,” Michelle said.
“Our goal for this year is a fun, positive season where everyone enjoys the sport. We will continue to work on the growth of our players and coaches and would love to do more work with our umpires - without them, we have no sport.”
IDNA Secretary Jude Goodair said the club has been busy preparing for another successful season.
“Over the past few years our focus has been on upgrading our courts. The support from Greater Bank allows us to shift our focus and set some new goals for this year’s season,” Jude said.
“We have big goals again this season to provide quality programs for our players as well as offer coaching development, pathway programs and increase men’s participation in netball.”
Greater Bank Shellharbour Branch Manager Matt Tonkin said netball brings a touching display of community spirit to the cooler months.
“We are really proud to support the local netball associations that bring our community together for good,” Matt said.
“I love seeing people come together to cheer along their family and friends from the sidelines – its great to see our sense of spirit come to life!
“It’s going to be another brilliant season, and we hope everyone has a fun year.”